Doggie Adventure Bus Assistant
Job Description
Job DescriptionDo you love dogs?Do you thrive in fast-paced, ever-changing outdoor environments?Are you adaptable, reliable, and comfortable switching gears when needed?
Then you may LOVE working on the Shoreline Happy Paws Doggie Adventure Bus
Imagine spending your workday helping dogs safely load into our Adventure Bus, heading out to trails and open spaces, supporting group hikes - and on other days providing 1-1 dog walks or small group hikes as needed. This role is ideal for someone who enjoys variety, teamwork, and staying engaged.
Shoreline Happy Paws is more than a dog walking company. We are a professional pet care team, proudly serving families along the Connecticut shoreline since 2010.
Curious what it's like to work with us?
Check out our Instagram and Facebook for behind-the-scenes moments, team highlights, and plenty of happy pups.
Why Join Shoreline Happy Paws?
Here's what sets us apart:
- Competitive Pay: $17 - $20/hr + Tips
- Paid Time Off: Accrued at 1 hour for every 30 hours worked (rare in this industry)
- Holiday Pay: Extra pay on designated holidays
- End-of-Year Bonus: Reward for dedication and consistency
- Education Stipend: We invest in your professional development
- Paid Training: Orientation, video training, CPR certification, and hands-on field training
- Perks: Costco membership and employee discounts
- Team Support: W-2 employment, insured, bonded, and covered by workers' comp - you are protected
- Industry Leadership: SHP is committed to elevating professional pet care standards
Position Requirements
- Adaptability is essential. This is a dynamic role where daily responsibilities may vary based on operational needs.
- Must live within our service area (non-negotiable):
- Essex, Old Saybrook, Old Lyme, Westbrook, Clinton, Madison, Deep River, Chester, Haddam, Higganum, East Lyme, Niantic, Waterford, Groton, New London
- Physical Requirements:
- An active role requiring standing, walking, bending, lifting, and working outdoors in all weather conditions
- Ability to safely assist with dogs of varying sizes, ages, and energy levels
- Reliable transportation to reporting locations
- Valid driver's license
- Smartphone with GPS, data, and a functioning camera
- Must pass a background check
What You Will Do
As a Doggie Adventure Bus Assistant, you are a trusted and flexible team member supporting multiple service types depending on the day.
You may be assigned to:
- Assist with safely loading and unloading dogs on the Doggie Adventure Bus
- Secure dogs using approved safety equipment
- Support the Adventure Bus Driver & Handler throughout the day
- Help manage group hikes and outdoor adventures, 1:7 ratio
- Provide 1-1 dog walks or small group hikes (2-5 dogs) when needed
- Monitor dog behavior, comfort, and energy levels
- Maintain calm, structure, and safety during high-energy moments
- Communicate clearly with teammates and supervisors
- Help keep vehicles, gear, and supplies clean and organized
Every day looks a little different. Adaptability, awareness, and a team-first mindset are essential for success in this role.
Shifts Available
This position offers two primary schedule options:
- Full-Day Shift: 8:00 AM - 5:00 PM
- Mid-Day Shift: 10:00 AM - 2:00 PM
- Priority given to candidates with consistent weekday availability
- Backup and floater availability is a plus
Career Growth Opportunities
At Shoreline Happy Paws, we believe in career paths, not just side jobs. Adventure Bus Assistants can grow into roles such as:
- Adventure Bus Driver
- Team Lead or Team Trainer
- Day Operations Leader
- Travel Care Coordinator
- Hiring and HR Coordinator
- Specialized Services (Vet Tech Services, Dog Training, Grooming)
- Education Roles (Pet First Aid & CPR Instructor)
- Creative and Marketing Roles (Content Creator, Event Coordinator, Graphic Designer)
Come ride with us.Grow with us.Be part of the Shoreline Happy Paws family